MK Chamber announces inaugural Board

Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce has announced its inaugural Board of Directors at its first anniversary event.

The announcement was made in front of 70 leading decision makers, academics, MPs and staff at the special breakfast presentation today held at University Campus Milton Keynes to mark the special milestone.

During the presentation, Paul Griffiths the Chamber’s Chief Executive, gave a review of the organisation’s first 12-months highlighting its successes and its growing membership which has exceeded 200 – representing 14% of the Milton Keynes workforce.

Paul also revealed the organisation was launching its own official colour magazine called In Business in November which would focus on news about its Chamber members.

He said: “Our vision is to build and nurture a respected, influential business community, and share knowledge, advice and opportunities.

“We want to become the ‘go-to’ organisation for business support in Milton Keynes and re-establish and enhance the local Chamber of Commerce reputation by delivering highly regarded and relevant products and services.

“With over 200 businesses within our membership, we are certainly on our way to achieving our aims and want to thank the business community for their support.

“We are also pleased with the enthusiastic response and calibre of the members who applied to join the inaugural Board of Directors. This new Board will help shape the strategic vision of the Chamber.

“I want to reinforce the fact that Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce is here to stay for the long term and look forward to working with many more businesses in the future.”

In addition, other announcements included making the majority of networking events exclusive to members and investing in a PR executive.

The first anniversary event was attended by Iain Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South and Mark Lancaster, MP for Milton Keynes North, who also gave a speech to the guests. MK Gallery, the Chamber’s Charity of the Year was also represented.

Mr Lancaster said: “Milton Keynes is a good city for business and this is reflected in our strong Chamber of Commerce. I am always pleased to see new businesses in Milton Keynes, and I certainly see innovative start-ups across MK, fostered I am sure by a supportive and nurturing Chamber of Commerce. I wish the Chamber of Commerce the very best for the year ahead and many years to come.”

Mr Stewart added: “A Chamber of Commerce is incredibly important to any city. With Milton Keynes being one the fastest growing cities in the UK it is important we have a Chamber that can support businesses starting-up and growing. We are lucky to have a very strong Chamber of Commerce and Paul Griffiths has done a great job over the last 12 months supporting enterprise across the city. I would like to congratulate all at Milton Keynes Chamber of Commerce on their first anniversary and wish them the best of luck for the year ahead.”